Teaching in Challenging Times: Resilience, Purpose and Growth

Reflecting on my experiences at UCATT’s inaugural Teaching Exchange Symposium, I was struck by the quiet but powerful sense that when the foundations of education are challenged, those who are passionate about it will come together to uphold and strengthen it. Faculty members from across the university, balancing demanding workloads, took the time to facilitate workshops, showcases, and discussions on teaching practices that integrate innovation, sustainability, and human connection.  

The sessions admirably reflected the symposium’s theme – “Cultivating Purpose, Nurturing Growth: Building a Thriving Teaching Practice.” Instructors shared strategies for managing large Gen-Ed courses, navigating difficult and charged discussions, fostering human-AI learning collaboration, and applying Universal Design in online courses. Educators explored the use of play in pedagogy, and methods to embed climate consciousness across all disciplines.  They also examined affective elements such as cultural humility, emotional labor, and personal boundaries in the teaching and learning environment. Participants forged new connections and exchanged techniques to enrich their teaching practice.

World Café discussions encouraged participants to engage deeply with the pressing challenges in higher education. Educators reflected on pedagogical methods and technological tools that enhance learning outcomes, while finding camaraderie in the acknowledgement of shared struggles in their profession. These conversations extended beyond academics, offering practical strategies for environmental mindfulness – such as committing to a single impactful change like eliminating disposables from daily life. A particularly thought-provoking insight was the idea of thoughtfully “acting as if” challenges were already overcome, for example envisioning successful student rapport that fosters timely, high-quality work.

A side theme of fun and joy was woven into the symposium, reinforcing the uplifting spirit of the event. The UCATT Communications team integrated colorful floral design elements across digital and physical spaces, from the symposium webpage to Zoom backgrounds to vinyl decorations for personalizing tote bags, facilitated by the Catalyst studio and their heat press. A Julia Child-inspired “Joy of Teaching” photo booth, complete with chef hats, aprons, flowers, and cooking props, set a playful stage for educators to contribute their own creative “Joy of Teaching” recipes, culminating in the Chef’s Kiss awards that wrapped up the day. The symposium Project Committee worked with Event Catering to feature meals and snacks worthy of this theme throughout the in-person event.

The symposium was more than a gathering—it was a testament to the resilience and dedication of educators who, despite challenges, remain steadfast in their mission to sustain and elevate the teaching profession.